WEST SPRINGFIELD – The city of West Springfield is taking necessary efforts to provide economic relief to residents and businesses during the pandemic.

In a letter sent to Town Council President Brian Griffin, Mayor William Reichelt unveiled an overview of the 2021 economic development/relief legislative package that he believes will help ease the burdens on existing businesses, and stimulate new business development throughout the city.

Much of Reichelt’s proposal involves specific amendments within certain sections of the district. For example, the mayor wants to allow single or two-family dwellings to be constructed within business districts. In doing this, Reichelt hopes to create more opportunities for housing in various areas.

The proposal also intends to make it less difficult for a new business to relocate to West Springfield into a building that was previously occupied by a similar business enterprise. Other amendments include: the elimination of off-street parking limits, the construction of dog daycares in zoning districts that did not allow for them before, and a more consistent policy for the allowance of mixed-business and residential uses in business zoning districts.

“I firmly believe that these changes will help to attract more businesses to West Springfield by making more properties adaptable and available for redevelopment or reuse,” said Reichelt, in his letter.

According to Reichelt, these changes are being proposed based on daily conversations with various individuals and businesses who inquire about commercial properties and allowable uses in West Springfield.

The mayor has also requested that the council consider adopting a value exemption of up to $10,000 for personal property taxes. Currently though, based on discussions from the town’s finance team, $5,000 exemption will be more likely, at least in the immediate future.

“The adoption of a small personal property account exemption would provide some financial relief for the small businesses in our community,” said Chief Financial Officer Sharon Wilcox.

The exemption may also benefit West Springfield in a number of other facets, like reducing uncollectible personal property accounts, record keeping and administrative time, as well as reducing the number of personal property inspections required.

“I believe that this will provide important tax relief to small businesses in town without significantly impacting the town’s revenue,” said Reichelt.

In December of last year, the West Springfield Licensing Commission voted unanimously to remove all license renewal fees for businesses in good standing. The Board of Health also voted in November to reduce permit renewal fees for businesses by 50 percent.

Reichelt has also offered relief throughout the pandemic to residents through various initiatives related to water-sewage chargers.

The package of amendments from the mayor will be debated and discussed in more depth during future council meetings.